Key Takeaways
- Cambrian College and College Boreal have been ranked among the top 50 research colleges in Canada by Re$earch Infosource Inc.
- Cambrian College ranked 32nd nationally in 2024, with over $4.55 million in applied research funding, and has made the list for the 14th year in a row.
- College Boreal ranked 46th among the top 50 colleges, with 11 major research projects in diverse areas such as agriculture, construction, and social innovation.
- Both colleges have demonstrated a strong commitment to industry partnerships, innovation, and providing hands-on learning experiences for students.
Introduction to Research Rankings
Cambrian College and College Boreal have been recognized as two of the top 50 research colleges in Canada, according to Re$earch Infosource Inc.’s annual list. This achievement is a testament to the colleges’ dedication to applied research and innovation. For the 14th year in a row, Cambrian College has made the list, ranking 32nd nationally in 2024 with over $4.55 million in applied research funding. College Boreal also ranked among the top 50, coming in at 46th, with 11 major research projects in areas such as agriculture, construction, and social innovation.
Cambrian College’s Research Achievements
Cambrian College’s president, Kristine Morrissey, noted that the recognition reinforces the college’s position as one of Canada’s premier destinations for applied research and innovation. The college’s faculty, students, and industry partners collaborate on projects that address real-world challenges and support business growth in Northern Ontario and beyond. Among medium-sized colleges, Cambrian placed first overall for its use of paid student researchers, with 231 student positions created for projects last year. The college also ranked third in its category for growth of research income from industry partners, which increased by 157% year-over-year. Additionally, Cambrian ranked fifth among medium-size colleges for industry funding as a percentage of total research income, and sixth for overall growth in research income.
College Boreal’s Research Initiatives
College Boreal, through its research arm, Research and Innovation Boreal (RIB), was recognized as one of Canada’s top 50 research colleges in 2025. The college ranked 46th, up four spots from 2023, and attributed its achievement to its commitment to innovation and developing strategic projects that meet the needs of industry and community partners. RIB is leading meaningful projects that support food-waste management, soil rehabilitation, and access to healthcare for French-speaking communities, among other initiatives. The college’s president, Daniel Giroux, stated that the recognition reflects the college’s role as a key partner for the communities and organizations it serves, and provides students with hands-on learning experiences that are valued in the job market.
Industry Partnerships and Innovation
Both Cambrian College and College Boreal have demonstrated a strong commitment to industry partnerships and innovation. Cambrian R&D, the college’s applied research division, works with industry partners in fields such as mining, heavy industry, and manufacturing, providing access to talented students, skilled researchers, and state-of-the-art facilities. College Boreal’s research projects, on the other hand, often come with awareness-raising initiatives aimed at students and the broader community, underscoring the essential role of science and research in economic development and community well-being. The colleges’ emphasis on industry partnerships and innovation has enabled them to make a significant impact in their respective regions, supporting business growth and providing students with valuable learning experiences.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, Cambrian College and College Boreal’s recognition as top 50 research colleges in Canada is a testament to their dedication to applied research and innovation. Their commitment to industry partnerships, innovation, and providing hands-on learning experiences for students has enabled them to make a significant impact in their respective regions. As they continue to strive for excellence in research and innovation, it is likely that they will remain among the top research colleges in Canada, supporting business growth and providing students with valuable learning experiences that prepare them for success in their chosen fields.